How Does Electronic Dance Music Relates To Society's Expression Of Individuality?

Despite the stigmatism that Electronic Dance Music (EDM) has received for its abstract culture, EDM leads the way for the increasing expression of individuality in today’s society. Many music festivals throughout the United States, such as Coachella, Bonnaroo, and Lollapalooza, bring diversity to one area where the attendees are solely focused on the experience of the festival. However, how does EDM relate to society’s expression of individuality? From the origin of EDM, alienated cultures were given a voice they had never before though the progressive outlets of clubs and parties. The origin of EDM began with the decline of interest in disco music. DJ Frankie Knuckles has been credited with bringing the lively rhythms and energetic distortions of sound to the United States. He began his career in The Warehouse, a gay club for African Americans in Chicago. Knuckles wanted to improve disco’s cheesy sound by using synthetic sounds and drum machines. The “new” sound that Knuckles created came to be what is known as “House” music; however, are the sounds and ideas of EDM really that new of a concept? Not

According to Merriam-Webster, “individuality” is defined as, “total character peculiar to and distinguishing an individual from others.” As stated earlier, DJ Knuckles began his career in a gay nightclub. DJ Knuckles' music allowed many within the nightclub to express themselves freely without judgment from others. Not only were homosexuals somewhat "liberated" during this time, but his music allowed all minorities to come together as one uniform culture. Such uniformity is seen today at every music festival. People of all cultures and ethnicities gather to enjoy the freedom that takes place at the festivals. The expression of individuality is made obvious through the impressive clothing statements, appreciation for diversity, and the support for one's favorite